Nea Kameni Volcano Boat Trip
Νέα Καμένη
The black lava island still active at the centre of the caldera. Climb to the crater rim in about 30 minutes, then swim in the sulphur hot springs at Palea Kameni. It is a classic half-day boat trip on Santorini.
Nea Kameni ('new burning place') is a small black lava island at the centre of Santorini's caldera. It formed from a series of eruptions between 1570 and 1950, and it is one of Europe's youngest volcanic landmasses. Sulphurous steam still rises from it (crater temperatures can exceed 90°C). It is a protected geological park, and taking rocks away is prohibited. The classic boat trip (about 3 to 6 hours, 20 to 50 euros depending on the tour) departs from the Old Port below Fira or from Athinios Port. First, you land on Nea Kameni and hike about 30 minutes along a gravel path to the 130-meter crater rim, where you can see steaming cracks and yellow sulphur deposits and look back at Fira and Oia on the cliffs. The landing fee (about 5 euros) is usually included in the ticket. Next, the boat sails to the neighbouring island of Palea Kameni ('old burning place'), where it anchors close to shore. Passengers jump into the sea and swim about 50 meters to a hot spring bay stained orange-brown by iron oxides. The water is about 33°C. Swimwear will be stained, so wear an old dark swimsuit. Longer tours also stop at Thirasia, a quiet island across the caldera with fishing village restaurants, and end at Amoudi Bay below Oia or sail around for the sunset. You can also choose a sunset cruise on a sailing boat or catamaran, which includes meals and swimming (about 100 to 200 euros, departing from Vlychada or Amoudi). These trips are more comfortable. Notes: the volcanic islands have only gravel paths and no shade, so wear trainers, a hat, and bring water. The sulphur smell is strong, so people with skin wounds or those who cannot swim well may prefer to stay on the boat. Trips may be cancelled in strong winds or rough seas, especially the northern summer winds. Tickets can be booked through travel agencies in Fira and Oia or online, and in peak season you should book one day in advance.
Opening hours
Cruises usually depart 10:00–11:00; sunset trips leave around 15:00 (April–October)
Nearby sights
- Fira Old Port & Cable Car
- Museum of Prehistoric Thera
- Imerovigli & Skaros Rock
- Fira
- Santo Wines Winery
- Fira to Oia Hiking Trail
- Megalochori
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site